How to Reset Apple TV: Step-by-Step Guide

[Barend Ray]

If your Apple TV is freezing, lagging, or you plan to sell it, resetting it can fix most issues. Here’s a complete guide on how to reset Apple TV easily and safely.

Why Reset Your Apple TV?​

Resetting your Apple TV can solve:

• Persistent freezing or crashing
• Wi-Fi connection issues
• App glitches and loading problems
• Preparing the device for resale or gifting

Depending on your situation, you can either restart, reset, or restore your Apple TV.

How to Restart Your Apple TV (Quick Fix)​

Before doing a full reset, try restarting first.

Steps to restart:

1. On your Apple TV remote, press and hold the Back (or Menu) and TV/Control Center buttons until the Apple TV status light blinks rapidly.
2. Release the buttons. Your Apple TV will reboot.

Alternatively:

1. Go to Settings
2. Select System
3. Choose Restart

Restarting is a quick way to solve minor issues without losing your settings.

How to Reset Apple TV (Without a Computer)​

If you want to erase all settings and data:

Steps for Apple TV HD or Apple TV 4K:

1. Open Settings
2. Select System
3. Choose Reset

You will then see two options:

• Reset: Quickly restores Apple TV to factory settings without needing an internet connection.
• Reset and Update: Resets to factory settings and installs the latest tvOS version (requires internet).

Tip: If your device is unresponsive or preparing it for a new owner, always choose Reset and Update for a clean start.

How to Reset Apple TV Using a Computer​

If your Apple TV won’t respond to normal reset methods, you can reset it through a Mac or PC.

What you need:

• A USB-C cable (for Apple TV HD) or a USB-A to Micro-USB cable (for older models)
• A Mac with Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or a PC/Mac with iTunes

Steps:

1. Disconnect power and HDMI cables from Apple TV.
2. Connect Apple TV to your computer using the correct USB cable.
3. Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows or older Mac).
4. Locate your Apple TV under Devices.
5. Click Restore Apple TV.

Your Apple TV will be erased and updated to the latest software.

Note: Apple TV 4K models do not have a USB port, so you can only reset them via Settings.

Important Things to Know Before Resetting​

• Backup: Apple TV settings, apps, and data cannot be backed up. Resetting means complete erasure.
• Apple ID: Remember to sign out of your Apple ID before selling or gifting to avoid Activation Lock.
• Internet connection: Needed if you choose “Reset and Update.”

Frequently Asked Questions​

Will resetting Apple TV delete my purchased apps or movies?​

No. Purchased content linked to your Apple ID stays available for re-download after signing back in.

Why can't I reset my Apple TV?​

If your Apple TV is frozen or stuck, try force restarting. If it still doesn’t work, use a computer to reset.

Does resetting fix Wi-Fi issues?​

Yes, resetting often solves persistent network or connectivity problems.

How long does it take to reset Apple TV?​

A basic reset takes about 5–10 minutes. “Reset and Update” can take longer depending on internet speed.

Final Thoughts​

Knowing how to reset Apple TV can save you a lot of frustration. Whether you’re troubleshooting problems or preparing to sell your device, following the right method ensures a smooth process. Always start with a restart for minor issues and reserve a full reset for bigger problems.